With technical assistance from the National Democratic Institute (NDI), the Verkhovna Rada (parliament) of Ukraine is exercising critical oversight functions and engaging in cross-faction dialogue. As the country fights for its very existence, they’re working toward a consensus on a parliamentary ethics code and other issues integral to Ukraine’s future.

Study Visit for Ukrainian MPs on Parliamentary Oversight of Military Assistance 

From April 17-21, NDI hosted a study visit for members of the "Temporary Special Commission on Monitoring the Receipt and Use of International Material and Technical Assistance During Martial Law," an initiative of the Ukrainian parliament. Led by the parliamentary opposition and with participation from all factions, the Commission has the critical task of tracking, monitoring, and reporting on the use of international military assistance from the moment it is transferred to Ukrainian authorities to when it is utilized on the battlefield. Such parliamentary oversight of government spending is part of a system of “checks and balances” and reflects the health of Ukrainian democracy, even under martial law. The Commission’s work is also a safeguard to ensure the international community's continued trust in Ukraine's use of weaponry and materials.

Over the course of the week, the Commission met with experts on civil-military relations and legislative oversight and benefited from lessons learned from other conflict environments. NDI co-hosted a public event with the Atlantic Council. They also organized a working dinner for the delegation with NDI president Derek Mitchell and board chair Senator Tom Daschle, as well as high-level meetings with the Department of Defense, USAID and the State Department. 

Eighth Round of Jean Monnet Dialogue Process

From April 27-29, NDI partnered with the European Parliament to organize the eighth round of the Jean Monnet Dialogues (JMD), a dialogue process designed to enable political leaders to focus on building consensus away from the media and political spotlight. Since 2016, the JMD process has played a critical role in building a more productive and professional legislative culture within the Verkhovna Rada and has facilitated consensus on dozens of legislative and procedural issues, including a new electoral code with open party lists and an enforceable gender quota. 

With NDI support and through the commitment of Ukrainian members of parliament to set aside any political differences for the good of their country, the April convocation of the JMD process led to consensus on issues around European Union accession and institutional reform of parliament. This included an ethics code for legislators, the role of the opposition, and parliamentary oversight during the period of martial law. 

Author: Larysa Radchenko, NDI/Ukraine